Rafa Benitez is preparing to return to football management after a 19-month absence, with his next move set to take him to Greece. The Spanish coach, who was dismissed by Celta Vigo in March 2024 following a disappointing campaign with just five wins from 28 LaLiga matches, is expected to take the helm at Panathinaikos.
Panathinaikos currently finds itself in seventh place in the Greek Super League, sitting on nine points after six games, eight points behind leaders PAOK but with a match in hand. Benitez’s forthcoming appointment will mark his first experience coaching in the Greek league, adding a new chapter to his extensive career.
Reports from Greece indicate that Benitez has agreed to a two-year contract with Panathinaikos. Dutch outlet De Telegraaf further reveals that the deal is set to break records in Greek football, following negotiations in London with club president Giannis Alafouzos.
The contract will reportedly see Benitez earn £3.47 million per year, making him the highest-paid manager in the history of Greek football. However, Benitez has requested a short delay before taking up his new post, as he arranges his move to Athens, meaning he will not be in charge for the upcoming Europa League clash at Feyenoord.
Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie expressed relief at not having to prepare for a Benitez-led Panathinaikos just yet, saying, “We’ve mapped everything out and have a good idea of how Panathinaikos plays, because the interim coach has been in place for a while. If Benitez had taken over now, things could have gone either way. Personally, I’m glad Benitez isn’t here yet; otherwise, you have to take everything into account.”
Over his career, Benitez has managed a remarkable array of clubs, including Liverpool, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli, and Real Madrid. His achievements range from winning two LaLiga titles and a UEFA Cup with Valencia, to capturing the FA Cup and Champions League with Liverpool, the FIFA Club World Cup at Inter Milan, and the Europa League while at Chelsea.
Benitez’s return to management is sure to attract attention, not only for his track record but also for the unprecedented salary he will command in Greece. As Panathinaikos looks to climb the table, all eyes will be on how quickly he can make his mark in this new setting.
